A WORCESTER man launched an unprovoked attack in the street, biting his victim on the hand and punching him on the side of the face.

Paul Brakespear needed three hepatitis injections and a course of antibiotics after the attack and feared that he might have contracted Aids as a result of the bite.

Droitwich Magistrates Court heard that Patrick Foley, aged 37, drank seven litres of ruby wine before the attack on Wednesday, February 7.

Doreece Gunter, prosecuting, said Mr Brakespear had been walking towards a chip shop at the Bull Ring in St John's, Worcester, around 6.30pm when he heard Foley shouting on the corner of Henwick Road.

"Mr Brakespear crossed the road to avoid him and as he crossed back, the defendant walked towards him and started to aim punches at his face," she said.

"He punched the defendant twice causing him to fall on the floor," added Miss Gunter.

"He put his knee on the defendant's chest and told him to calm down but he struggled violently and wrapped his legs around Mr Brakespear's back and bit his index finger on the knuckle.

"Mr Brakespear let go and the defendant ran towards him shouting.

"He was still trying to land punches, kicks and bites and one kick caught Mr Brakespear on the side of the leg while another punch caught his face.

"The attack was unprovoked and Mr Brakespear feared for his safety. He was especially upset because he had been bitten and was worried he might have Aids or hepatitis."

Foley, who will be moving into a flat at King Charles Place, St John's, admitted the assault along with a string of offences, including the assault of a police officer in Derby, on Sunday, January 28.

John Onions, defending, said drink had been the "root of all evil" for Foley, adding that his client could not remember anything about the assault.

"He's extremely remorseful and realises this type of behaviour is unacceptable," he said.

"He is determined to do something which will keep him off drink."

Foley was given two years' probation under the supervision of a probation officer and was also ordered to attend an alcohol counselling course.

He was ordered to pay £150 compensation to Mr Brakespear, and £118 court costs.